5 Quick and Easy Homemade Ice Packs
By Debra Rodzinak
Ice is such a wonderful way to treat muscle pain and strain. You don’t have to spend a lot of money on fancy gel or ice packs. Here are five different homemade ice packs that work just as well, if not better, than the kind purchased in a store.
Rice Filled Sock
Take a comfy (clean) sock and about 2 or 3 cups of rice. Using a funnel, pour the rice into the sock, filling the sock half way. Tie a knot in the top of the sock to keep the rice from falling out. This type of ice pack is beneficial for a gentle ice application that can be molded to fit the area exactly. Rice will actually get as cold as ice does, but will not melt.
Frozen Fruit or Vegetables
An oldie but a goodie, a bag of frozen fruit or vegetables can be used in a pinch. Just make sure that if you use this type of ice pack that the fruit or vegetables don’t leak out. You may want to put the bag in a freezer bag. Also, throw away the bag when done.
Frozen Sponge
This one is pretty simple. All you need is a freezer bag and a sponge. Wet the sponge, then wring out and place in the freezer bag. After frozen, wrap the sponge in a sock or towel before applying to the affected area.
Frozen Soap
This one is interesting. Using a freezer bag and some type of liquid soap or dishwashing gel, pour the soap or gel into the bag, filling it to the desired amount. This type of ice pack can be molded for hard-to-reach places or areas that have many bumps and turns—like the hands or toes. This is very similar to a gel pack.
Frozen Towel
Using the handy freezer bag again, take a small towel. Dip the towel in water and wring it out. Place the towel in the freezer bag and place in the freezer for 10 to 20 minutes. After this time, take the towel out of the freezer and place on the affected area.
Ice and Water
Place ice in a freezer bag and press out all of the air before sealing. Adding a small amount of water allows the ice bag to not be so lumpy. Make sure to wrap in a towel before applying to the skin.